Homeowner Faces Backlash Over Illegal Short Term Rentals

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a contentious case involving a property owned by Mr. Young, whose short-term rental (STR) permit was revoked by the board of adjustment. The property has been listed for long-term rental without the necessary permit since 2022, and Mr. Young has faced scrutiny for resuming illegal short-term rentals earlier this year.

Code compliance officials initiated action against Mr. Young after he was found to be renting the home without proper authorization. Despite paying delinquent hotel occupancy taxes, Mr. Young's application for an STR permit has raised concerns, particularly regarding compliance with city regulations that require property owners to reside at the rental during its operation or have a property manager present.

The meeting revealed that Mr. Young currently lives elsewhere while the home is rented long-term. He stated that if he were not present, his son would fulfill the residency requirement. However, the property has a history of complaints, including a noise complaint from a neighbor in 2021 when it was previously operated as a short-term rental.

In accordance with state law, the city sent out notifications to residents within a 200-foot radius of the property, receiving seven opposition responses, alongside eight additional objections from residents within an 800-foot radius. While five responses were in favor of the request, they came from outside the immediate notification area.

Given the opposition and the issues surrounding the property, city staff recommended against approving Mr. Young's request for an STR permit. Should the commission decide to approve the request, staff proposed conditions including obtaining the necessary permit, notifying the city of any ownership changes, and limiting rentals to four rooms for stays of less than 30 days. The outcome of this case remains pending as the commission deliberates on the recommendations.